Another Fijian in Wallabies’ panel

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29 March, 2018, 12:00 am

I am proud that former Flying Fijians captain Simon Raiwalui has joined the Wallabies as their forwards coach to assist Michael Cheika. Simon has coaching experience with Biarritz, Stade Francais and Racing 92 and has donned the jerseys of top European clubs such as Racing Metro, Saracens, Sale and Newport. He also captained the Saracens club.

Simon was part of the Brad Johnstone and the late Mac McCallion-coached sides to the 1999 and 2003 RWC 15s. He trained under both coaches whose coaching philosophy required players to be rugged, workaholic and aggressive.

Raiwalui secured the job after the departure of former Puma international Mario Ledesma. The Wallabies have struggled in recent times and fired former Crusaders coach Robbie Deans.

Since Cheika took over, the Wallabies have remained in the spotlight but have shown signs that they will be a force come the 2019 RWC in Japan.

Now that Raiwalui has joined the forwards department, expect the Wallabies to be in full force when they battle NZ, Argentina and South Africa in the Rugby Championship. His expertise should help Cheika, Mick Byrne and former players Nathan Grey and Stephen Larkham to steer the Wallabies.

My best wishes to our former skipper as he takes charge as the forwards’ coach!

Finally, I agree with Jerry that it’s high time that fans stop the unfair criticism of 7s players because it could have an impact on the morale and performance in tournaments. It’s time we support our team even if they fail to win a tournament.